“Magic is essentially an act of communication, transmitting the Will of the magician to the Gods, the Universe, or whatever in terms that may be understood and acted upon”
Magic and the Spoken Word – Introduction
Magic, in its essence, is a form of communication – a potent and often misunderstood way of interacting with the forces of the universe. At the heart of magical practices, from the ancient rites of Egypt to the ceremonial magics of modern times, lies the power of words. Michael Kelly, in his illuminating work “Words of Power,” encapsulates this concept succinctly. He notes, “Magic is essentially an act of communication, transmitting the Will of the magician to the Gods, the Universe, or whatever in terms that may be understood and acted upon”
In the realm of magic, words are more than mere vehicles of expression; they are the very instruments through which desires are manifested and intentions are made tangible. Kelly further elaborates on this, stating, “Words make the invisible visible, transforming a series of sound values into visual symbols you can read upon a page. These symbols and sounds encode a message, which your brain decodes as it reads the words or hears them spoken”.
If you’re exploring magic out of curiosity, it’s fascinating to consider how the principles of magic parallel effective communication. The way witches use language to shape their reality is not entirely different from how persuasive speech or powerful writing can influence our everyday lives.
This post delves into the fascinating world of magic as a communicative process, exploring how words shape reality and bring the unmanifest into manifestation.
The Essence of Magic as Communication
“For something to be ‘enchanted’ – to have fallen under some magical influence – literally means that a chant has been spoken over or about it, i.e., it has been affected by the power of words”
The interplay between language and magic is foundational in understanding how spells and incantations work. Kelly explains this connection: “For something to be ‘enchanted’ – to have fallen under some magical influence – literally means that a chant has been spoken over or about it, i.e., it has been affected by the power of words”.
This concept is evident across various traditions, where the spoken or written word is key to any effective method of magic. Whether these words are plain and direct, veiled in poetry, or concealed by codes or ciphers, they are the foundation upon which magical practices are built.
The Historical Context of Word-Based Magic
“Every religious tract or political manifesto, every glossy advertising leaflet, is a manifestation of written Lesser Magic”
Tracing back to ancient civilizations like Egypt, where magic was an integral part of daily life. Egyptian magic was deeply rooted in the power of words and verbal formulae. Kelly points out the reliability and effectiveness of these ancient practices, where even the most rudimentary spells were treated with a high degree of reverence and belief in their power.
Egyptian magic was deeply rooted in the power of words and verbal formulae.
- Invocation of the Gods: The Egyptian magic spells often involved invoking the Gods, or the magician assuming the form and persona of a God. For instance, a spell recited by the Goddess Isis, or by a magician in her guise, was used to cure the venomous sting of a scorpion. This spell involved commanding the poison to cease its harm, while the magician recited their attributes and the authority they possessed. Such spells typically included repetitive commands to the recipient of the spell, building up to a climax as the spell was spoken or read.
- Formula for Transformation: Another example is a transformative spell from the Egyptian Book of the Dead, specifically for taking the form of a serpent. This spell is a rhythmic sequence of words, expressing a meaning that is brought into being through the voice and Will of the speaker. The spell could also be written down, as written words were believed to be equally effective in Egyptian magic.
- Concise Magical Statements: Egyptian spells were often brief and direct, aiming to bring about a change immediately and decisively. These spells consisted of concise statements of the magician’s wishes, sometimes also invoking words and names with significant magical character. The exact pronunciation and choice of words were crucial to the effectiveness of these spells.
The Art of Crafting Spells
“In order to work magic, it is necessary to know the right words and to speak them correctly, communicating their message aright. There is little difference with Lesser Magic: you will speak words to the right person (or persons) so that the things you Desire will be accomplished”
Crafting a spell is much like writing a compelling story. It requires clarity, focus, and a deep understanding of the desired outcome. This is where the art of language comes into play. Each word in a spell is selected for its specific meaning and power, woven together to create a powerful expression of intent and purpose.
In magic, words are not just symbols or metaphors. They are functional tools. By speaking or writing, a witch articulates their will, transforming an impulse into a tangible command. This process is akin to the ancient art of ‘grammarye’ or ‘spell-crafting,’ where the structure of language mirrors the structure of reality.
Steps to Crafting Powerful Spells
The Power of Voice and Rhythm: Understanding the magic of your own voice in casting spells. It is essential to listen to the rhythm of speech and understand the tonality. This understanding can greatly influence the effectiveness of the spell or chant. The way you arrange your thoughts and words plays a significant role.
Personal Style in Writing Spells: When writing spells or magical texts, engaging emotions and imagination is crucial. We suggest developing a personal style that reflects your earnestness and humor. This style should make the written word more engaging and effective as a tool of magical persuasion.
Focus and Intent: The spells tend to be direct and to the point, demanding a change and commanding it into existence. This requires a focused and concentrated will. The witch must be clear and decisive about their intention and the desired outcome of the spell.
Understanding the Meaning of Words: In the practice of magic, understanding the underlying meanings of words and how they are interpreted together to tell a story is crucial. This understanding increases the power of the words used in spells and chants.
Preparing for the Spell: Before uttering spells, preparation is key. This involves setting up the ritual space, ensuring all ritual tools, texts, and correspondences are correct, and then focusing on the use of voice and the spoken word.
Language and Its Connection to Magic: Understanding the connection between language and magic is useful. Words for magic are often derived from words relating to language, like ‘grimoire’ from ‘grammar’ and ‘enchant’ from ‘chant’. This connection underlines the power of spoken and written words in magical practices.
The Role of Emotions in Chants: Evoking emotion through speech is akin to conjuring a spirit. The effectiveness of a spoken spell depends on the build-up and management of emotions through chants or speeches.
Incantations of Power: A Collection of Ancient and Mystical Spells
Spell by Isis for Curing a Venomous Sting:
Spell: “Come Tefen, appear upon the ground, depart hence, come not nigh! Come poison of Befen, appear upon the ground. I am Isis, the Goddess, the lady of words of power, who doeth deeds of magic, the words of whose voice are charms. Obey me, O every reptile that stingeth, and fall down headlong! O poison of [Mestet and] Mestetef, mount not upwards! O poison of Petet and Thetet, draw not nigh! O Matet, fall down headlong!”
Context: This spell was spoken by the Goddess Isis, or by a magician assuming her form, to cure a scorpion sting. The spell involved commanding the poison and asserting magical authority. The original source of the spell by Isis for curing a venomous sting is from ancient Egyptian magical texts
A Love Charm:
Spell: “ICHANARMENTHO CHASAR, cause N_____ to love me.”
Context: This is a spell where the witch writes characters on a sheet of tin with a copper stylus as part of a love charm. These words represent a combination of astrological and elemental symbols, like Sun, Fire, Moon, Scorpio, Capricorn, Libra, Mercury, Earth, Mars, Fire, Moon, Aquarius, Moon, Capricorn, symbolizing passion, desire, and emotional influence.
The original source of the “A Love Charm” spell, featuring the incantation “ICHANARMENTHO CHASAR, cause N_____ to love me,” is rooted in the Graeco-Egyptian magical tradition. This tradition represents a synthesis of Greek and Egyptian magical practices and is well-documented in various Graeco-Egyptian magical papyri. These papyri contain a multitude of spells, incantations, and magical formulas, blending the mystical elements of both cultures.
In the context of the spell, the words “ICHANARMENTHO CHASAR” are more than just a simple phrase; they encapsulate a series of complex astrological and elemental symbols. Each element of the spell is thought to correspond to certain celestial bodies and signs, like the Sun, Moon, Scorpio, Capricorn, Libra, Mercury, Earth, and Mars. This specific alignment and combination of words and symbols are believed to invoke deep emotional and passionate responses, making it a potent spell in the realm of love magic.
Invocation in the Grimorium Verum:
Spell: “Come Anael, in the terrific name of Jehova! Come, Anael, by the power of the everliving Elohim! Come, thee, by the right arm of the mighty Metatron!”
Context: This spell is part of a longer invocation calling the Angel Anael to appear in a skrying mirror and attend to the magician’s needs.
The original source for the invocation calling upon the Angel Anael from the “Grimorium Verum” is rooted in the traditions of Western ceremonial magic. The “Grimorium Verum,” or “The True Grimoire,” is one of the foundational texts of Western occultism, thought to have been written in the 18th century. It is part of a larger collection of texts known as grimoires, which are manuals for magical evocation and include detailed instructions for summoning and interacting with spiritual entities.
This particular invocation, “Come Anael, in the terrific name of Jehova! Come, Anael, by the power of the everliving Elohim! Come, thee, by the right arm of the mighty Metatron!”, is designed to summon the Angel Anael. In the context of Western ceremonial magic, such invocations are used to call upon specific angels or other spiritual beings, each with their unique attributes and powers. The invocation employs sacred names and titles, such as “Jehova,” “Elohim,” and “Metatron,” which are believed to hold significant power in the ritual context.
The use of a skrying mirror in this spell is a common practice in ceremonial magic for visualizing and communicating with summoned entities. The invocation is part of a larger ritual process aimed at achieving a specific goal, in this case, seeking the assistance or guidance of the angel Anael. The “Grimorium Verum” provides a wealth of such invocations and is considered a crucial work for understanding the practice and theory of ceremonial magic.
Curse Using Ogham:
Spell: “Horror, horror, horror, I hurl unto thee; Hate, hurt and harm upon thee like hail.”
Context: This example illustrates how a magician could use alliteration and the sounds of ogham (ancient alphabetic script) to cast a curse. It was combined with inscribing the core ogham(s) invoked on a material, sometimes including the target’s name.
The “Curse Using Ogham” spell, with the incantation “Horror, horror, horror, I hurl unto thee; Hate, hurt and harm upon thee like hail,” is derived from the traditions of Celtic magic, particularly those practices involving Ogham. Ogham is an ancient alphabetic script used primarily for the Old Irish language, found predominantly in Ireland and parts of Wales, Scotland, and England.
This specific spell utilizes the sounds and symbolism of the Ogham script in a curse, employing the technique of alliteration, a common feature in Celtic poetry and incantations. The use of repetitive and forceful words like “Horror, hate, hurt, and harm” is intended to harness the power of speech and written word, aligning with the belief that words can manifest real effects in the world.
In the broader context of Celtic magical practices, the Ogham script was often considered to have intrinsic magical properties. Each character or “feda” in Ogham was associated with a particular tree or plant, and by extension, various symbolic meanings and powers. In casting a curse, a magician would often inscribe specific Ogham characters onto a material object, sometimes alongside the name of the intended target, to direct the curse’s effect.
This practice reflects the ancient Celts’ deep reverence for language and nature, and their belief in the intertwining of the physical and spiritual realms. The use of Ogham in spells and curses is a testament to this interconnected worldview, where alphabetic symbols could be harnessed for powerful magical purposes.
Cursing Formula Using Thurisaz Runes:
Spell: The use of three thurisaz runes in sequence is recognized as a powerful cursing formula. It’s sometimes inserted in a phrase that also specifies the target and nature of the curse.
Context: This is an example of rune magic, where specific runes are used to create a formula with a targeted effect.
The “Cursing Formula Using Thurisaz Runes” originates from the ancient Norse and Germanic traditions of rune magic. In these traditions, runes are not just letters of an alphabet, but also powerful symbols with inherent magical properties. Each rune represents various elements of nature, aspects of human existence, and cosmic forces.
The Thurisaz rune, specifically, is often associated with the god Thor and represents reactive force, defense, and sometimes conflict or destruction. Using three Thurisaz runes in sequence as a cursing formula is a method grounded in the belief that repetition amplifies the rune’s inherent power. In Norse and Germanic magical practices, such a formula could be used to direct aggressive or protective energy towards a specific target or to achieve a particular outcome, often related to defense or overcoming obstacles.
When inscribed or spoken, the sequence of runes forms a potent magical statement. The inclusion of specific details about the target and the intended nature of the curse further personalizes and directs the magic. This practice reflects the broader principles of rune magic, where the combination of symbolic language and focused intent is believed to manifest real changes or outcomes.
Bardic Satire:
Spell: An example of bardic satire used to topple King Bress from his throne. The verse denounces the king for poor hospitality, using specific phrasing to convey the curse.
Context: Bardic satire is a historical example of using spoken words as a form of magical spell or curse, particularly in Celtic traditions.
The Bardic Satire, particularly the example used to denounce King Bress for poor hospitality, stems from the rich tradition of Celtic bardic culture. In ancient Celtic society, bards held a significant and respected position. They were not only poets and musicians but also custodians of culture, history, and tradition. Their words, especially in the form of satire, were believed to have real power and could be used to praise or to curse.
The spell against King Bress is an example of this power. The verse, crafted as a bardic satire, was not merely a poetic criticism; it was believed to have actual magical effects. The specific phrasing of the curse was designed to strip the king of his legitimacy and power, reflecting the belief that a bard’s words could materially affect the world and the fate of individuals. In Celtic societies, satire was feared for its ability to bring shame, dishonor, and even physical harm or illness.
Bardic satire often utilized keen wit, sharp observation, and a deep understanding of societal norms and expectations. The bards’ ability to use these tools effectively gave their words a perceived magical or supernatural power. In the case of King Bress, the satire was potent enough to cause his downfall, showcasing the significant impact that words and public opinion held in Celtic culture.
This tradition highlights the ancient Celts’ belief in the power of words, not just as a means of communication but as a tool for shaping reality and exerting influence. The Bardic Satire, as a magical or spiritual practice, exemplifies the intersection of art, magic, and societal power in Celtic traditions.
Rune Singing:
Spell: Rune singing involves chanting associated with each rune, expressing its attributes and interactions in the resonance it creates when intoned.
Context: Each rune in the ancient alphabetic script is believed to have a unique ‘song’ or chant that brings its qualities into manifestation.
Rune Singing, as described in the context of chanting associated with each rune, has its roots in the ancient Norse and Germanic traditions. The practice of rune singing involves the vocalization or intonation of runes, which are considered not just as alphabetic symbols but as potent magical sigils. Each rune in the Elder Futhark (the oldest form of the runic alphabets) embodies specific meanings, energies, and aspects of the natural and spiritual world.
In Norse and Germanic magic, it is believed that by singing or chanting the runes, one can tap into their intrinsic power. This act of vocalization is thought to activate and manifest the qualities represented by each rune. The vibration and resonance created by rune singing are considered to channel the rune’s energy, enabling the practitioner to harness it for various purposes, such as divination, protection, or to bring about certain changes.
For example, the rune “Fehu” might be chanted for matters relating to wealth and prosperity, while “Isa” could be intoned for purposes of stillness or blockage. The specific ‘song’ or chant for each rune is designed to resonate with its unique frequency and attributes.
Rune singing is a practice deeply embedded in the spiritual and magical worldview of the Norse and Germanic peoples. It underscores the belief in the power of sound, voice, and language as tools for interacting with and influencing the subtle energies of the world. This practice is a testament to the ancient understanding of runes as living symbols with inherent power, not just mere writing tools.
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